Deadline: August 31, 2025
Presented by the Northampton Arts Council
Event Date: Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Deadline to Apply: August 31, 2025
The Northampton Arts Council is now accepting performer applications for First Night Northampton 2026, our city’s 41st annual New Year’s Eve celebration and festival of the performing arts. This beloved event showcases the depth and diversity of artistic talent in our region and beyond. We invite musicians, dancers, theater troupes, puppeteers, comedians, circus acts, storytellers, multimedia artists, and more to apply.
About the Event:
First Night Northampton takes place throughout downtown Northampton on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. It features over 100 performances at multiple indoor venues and public outdoor spaces. A fireworks display will light up the sky at 6:15 PM, and we’ll kick off the countdown to midnight with our unique downtown “ball-raising” celebration outside Hotel Northampton.
Why Perform at First Night?
– Share your talent with thousands of enthusiastic attendees
– Be part of a tradition that celebrates community, creativity, and connection
– Receive an honorarium for your participation
– Promote your work in one of New England’s most culturally vibrant cities.
Let’s ring in 2026 together—on stage, in the spotlight, and in the heart of Northampton.
